Interstitial Cystitis

skadis
on 6/20/07 3:26 am - Owings Mills, MD
I have been diagnosed with interstitial cystitis since my gastric bypass three years ago.  The diet required for ic is very different than for gastric bypass and in many ways goes against gastric bypass eating needs .  Is there anyone else who has ic out there and if so, how are you handling the diet issue?
findme228
on 6/20/07 5:13 am - MD
Hello, I have not had this, but an associate of mines had something very similiar and she sent me the following insert from a website she visits. What you have can be so many different issues but you proabably already know that, so here is the info, take care.

Diet

There is no scientific evidence linking diet to IC / PBS, but many doctors and patients find that alcohol, tomatoes, spices, chocolate, caffeinated and citrus beverages, and high-acid foods may contribute to bladder irritation and inflammation. Some patients also note that their symptoms worsen after eating or drinking products containing artificial sweeteners. Patients may try eliminating various items from their diet and reintroducing them one at a time to determine which, if any, affect their symptoms. However, maintaining a varied, well balanced diet is important.

Smoking

Many patients feel that smoking makes their symptoms worse. How the by-products of tobacco that are excreted in the urine affect IC / PBS is unknown. Smoking, however, is the major known cause of bladder cancer. Therefore, one of the best things smokers can do for their bladder and their overall health is to quit.

Exercise

Many patients feel that gentle stretching exercises help relieve IC / PBS symptoms.

Bladder Training

People who have found adequate relief from pain may be able to reduce frequency by using bladder training techniques. Methods vary, but basically patients decide to void (empty their bladder) at designated times and use relaxation techniques and distractions to keep to the schedule. Gradually, patients try to lengthen the time between scheduled voids. A diary in which to record voiding times is usually helpful in keeping track of progress.

skadis
on 6/21/07 5:59 am - Owings Mills, MD
Thanks for your reply.  The info you sent is correct however the doc I use and me have found that many more foods also effect IC and they recommend that your diet include, bread, rice, pasta, chicken, fish, meat with no sauces, mayo, salad dressing, condiments, etc., only some spices.  You can have veggies but only pears, honeydew, blueberries for fruit.  This makes it very hard since it's difficult to eat dry foods.  If anyone has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them.  I'm going to make an appointment with the nutritionist to get more ideas.
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